South Africa’s biomaterials sector: Examining demand-side policies for bioplastics

Biomaterials, and bioplastics specifically, offer a potential decarbonisation option for the petrochemicals value chain. South Africa relies heavily on coal as an input into chemicals production and bio-based bioplastics have room to substitute for traditional plastics. The market for bioplastics in South Africa is currently limited and market demand has yet to materialise substantially. While a number of efforts are present to develop the supply side of the market, policy interventions are necessary to stimulate demand for sustainable plastics. Policies that can stimulate the demand for bioplastic include bans or quotas on traditional plastics, levies or taxes on traditional plastics, ecolabels and standards, green public procurement, and raising social awareness. Baba-Tamana Gqubule moderates this webinar session featuring Jenitha Badul and Ozunimi Iti. Their dialogue presented recent work on stimulating demand for bioplastics in South Africa.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak8Rh3RchIs

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